In view of the international demand for processed pineapple
products and also on account of the concentration of pineapple growing
in the district of Siliguri and Jalpaiguri of West Bengal, a proposal was
mooted for setting up such a zone. This project entails development of
the produce through research and extension by a dedicated team of personnel,
setting up of processing plants by private entrepreneurs and concerted
market efforts. As per the proposed projections, the total investment of
Rs. 35.59 crores is envisaged, out of which Rs. 31.44 crores will come
from the private entrepreneurs for setting up of processing plants. The
remaining amount will come from various Government Agencies like Ministry
of Food Processing Industry, National Horticulture Board, Ministry of Agriculture
and APEDA. This investment is anticipated to lead to projected exports
of around Rs. 127 crores in the next 5 years.